Weekly Franciscan reflections

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Reflection for week of 18 May, 2025

Even disruptions can be gifts

The last few years have seen some terrible natural disasters in our world. Hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, monsoons, tsunamis—so many people have been forced to start again with nothing.

How can it be, as we reflected on last week, that even suffering is a gift?

Answering that question requires a Chrisitan perspective—to remember that our journey in this world is meant to prepare us for the next. It is our nature to focus on the negative and even to lose hope, but we must also see opportunity in these disruptive experiences.   

If we are personally suffering the effects of something terrible, we can use the experience to appreciate the gift and fragility of life, the transient nature of material goods, and the power of hope amidst despair.

If we are not directly affected, we can show the love of Jesus in so many ways, such as by donating money or necessities, volunteering our time, simply being there for others in need, and by praying for God’s grace to be granted to all who are dealing with a tragedy.

In our reflections this week, let us remember that even in the most difficult situations, our faith can be strengthened and shared with others.

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